A root canal treatment can help you enjoy lasting relief from the pain caused by a tooth infection. But in some cases, the discomfort might go away on its own. What does that mean for you? Has the issue taken care of itself, or should you go ahead with having a root canal treatment performed? It’s important to understand what the lack of pain actually means so that you can make the best decision for your oral health.
What Does It Mean When an Infected Tooth Stops Hurting?
A tooth infection occurs when harmful bacteria attack the pulp at the center of the dental structure. The pulp contains the tooth’s nerves; as such, if it becomes infected, it can result in significant pain.
If the infection is left untreated, the nerves of the tooth may become so badly damaged that they cease to work properly. Consequently, they will no longer send pain signals to the brain, and your tooth will no longer seem to hurt. However, the infection will persist and continue to damage the tooth. Eventually, the problem could spread beyond the roots of the tooth and start affecting other parts of your mouth.
Why Do You Need Root Canal Treatment for an Infected Tooth?
To address a tooth infection, your dentist may recommend a root canal treatment. This procedure involves removing the infected pulp. By getting rid of the source of the infection, your dentist can prevent the problem from growing any more severe.
In many cases, having a root canal treatment performed could give you the best chance of saving a tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted. It also prevents the infection from spreading any further, thereby protecting your oral and overall health.
What Does Root Canal Treatment Involve?
Before your root canal treatment, your dentist will numb your mouth with a local anesthetic. As a result, you shouldn’t experience any pain during the procedure, although you might feel some pressure.
A small opening will be created in the tooth, and the infected pulp will be taken out. The inside of the tooth will be thoroughly cleaned to get rid of any lingering bacteria. Then your dentist will fill the tooth with a biocompatible substance before resealing it. You will likely be given a dental crown to strengthen and protect the tooth that was treated.
Once you find out that you need a root canal treatment, you should make arrangements to have it performed as soon as you can. Regardless of whether your tooth is currently in pain, the procedure could be an essential step for keeping your smile safe.
About the Author
Dr. Kristen LaBianca Langworthy went to the North Carolina School of Dentistry. Her professional memberships include the North Carolina Dental Society and the Academy of General Dentistry. At Langworthy Family Dentistry in Fuquay-Varina, she has been able to help multiple patients save their infected teeth with comfortable root canal treatments. If you’re concerned about pain in your tooth, you can schedule an appointment with Dr. Langworthy by visiting her website, using her online booking tool, or calling (919) 762-6887.